Child advocacy centers (CACs) are community-based, child-friendly, multidisciplinary services for children and families affected by sexual abuse or severe physical abuse. CACs bring together,in one location, child protective services investigators, law enforcement, prosecutors, and medical and mental health professionals to provide a coordinated, comprehensive response to victims and their caregivers.

Today, there are nearly 700 children’s advocacy centers nationwide, and more on the way.  Children’s advocacy centers are designed to meet the unique needs of the particular community in which it is located – so no two centers are exactly alike

The Child Advocacy Initiative of Cayuga County adheres to standards as set forth by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services.  We are work closely with the New York State Child Advocacy Resource and Consultation Center(www.nyscarcc.org/resources/nysca.php.)  and are currently seeking associate membership in the National Children's Alliance.  www.nationalchildrensalliance.org/

There are numerous benefits to having a local Child Advocacy Center.  Child Advocacy Centers assist law enforcement and Child Protective Services with the handling of abuse cases.  They're also a huge resource and location of support for the child and their family. The Child Advocacy Initiative of Cayuga Counseling hosts education, therapy and advocacy services as well as a medical component that allows victims and their families to receive services in one "child friendly" location.

When you visit our site you will have the pleasure of meeting Snickers. Snickers is a certified therapy dog who will brighten your day and make your experience at our center more pleasurable!

Animals have a way of accepting without qualification. They don't care how a person looks or what they say. An animal's acceptance is nonjudgmental, forgiving, and uncomplicated. They accept you the way you are. Having an animal to hold, hug, and touch can make a world of difference to kids who have experienced negative and inappropriate physical contact.

       For more about the connection between pets and healing:

      http://www.healingwell.com/library/health/mitchell3.asp